If you pay attention, you will notice that your jaw sometimes clicks and pops. If this happens frequently with you, you may be concerned. Some people choose to ignore this as it does not usually mean something serious. It also does not cause any kind of pain. However, frequent cases may raise the question of whether your jaw joint is alright.
If your jaw joint popping and clicking is paired with other signs, such as pain, it could be problematic. Sometimes, jaw clicking is caused by overextending of the jaw. For example, when you open your mouth too wide to bite from a big burger. To find out the root cause of the issue, visit a dentist in Summit, IL, today.
Why does your jaw pop and click?
For most people, the popping and clicking of the jaw is not a concern. It is a normal experience when you open your mouth too wide and close it. However, in some severe cases, this popping sound could be resulting from a TMJ disorder. Also known as TMD, it is a disorder that occurs when your jaw is injured or stressed. The cartilage-like disk inside the joint displaces, leading to a pop sound and clicking sensation. Sometimes, it can be uncomfortable and painful.
In the most rare cases, the popping results from a broken or dislocated jaw. If you have recently had an accident, you should visit the doctor or dentist for a check-up.
Symptoms
If the popping and clicking sound has been bothering you, pay a visit to the dentist. A diagnosis is the best way to confirm the nature of the problem. Meanwhile, here are some symptoms of a TMD.
- Facial soreness
- Frequent headaches
- Difficulty speaking
- Difficulty chewing
- Earache
- Ringing in your ears
- Facial swelling
- Neck aches and back aches
- Headache
Remedies and treatment
There are several home remedies for a clicking jaw. Over-the-counter medications are a widely favored option for pain and swelling relief. They are one of the most opted-for options. Using heat and ice packs and practicing stress management can also help. Moreover, take note of your eating habits. Avoid foods that are tough to chew and see if the problem persists.
There are several medical options to explore as well. Dental equipment, like a nightguard or a splint, can manage clenching or grinding. Surgical intervention may be considered in cases of overbite or underbite, but it is generally reserved as a last resort. The type of surgery will depend on the root cause of the problem.
